Shakespeare in the Parks Program Hit by Recession

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) - Officials with the Shakespeare in the Parks program say it is facing one of the hardest financial years in its 37-year history due to the recession.

Joel Jahnke, artistic director and theater professor at Montana State University, says the program is paying more attention to every dime and every income source. Corporate donations are down more than 45%, and individual donations have also fallen.

The Shakespeare Theatre Association of America says the sinking economy has meant shrinking donations everywhere. Milwaukee's Shakespeare company was forced to fold. Jahnke says the Montana operation is becoming more creative with its fundraising.

On a related note, Sheridan fans need not fear; Montana Shakespeare in the Park will be here July 19th to present "Two Gentlemen of Verona" at the Kendrick Park band shell.